Brevan
The conversations and occasional off-key singing are louder than the music coming from the band tucked away in the corner. I sip the warm ale in my mug, holding back my reaction from the bitter taste. It’s probably the worst I’ve had in a long while, but there’s not a lot of options on this route.
A gust of wind blows, and I look toward the door as Caiden walks in. With the hood of his cloak covering his head, he could be anyone. It helps that most people have never actually seen the emperor or the prince to know what they look like. Without the entourage and expensive clothing, we’re just travelers.
He sits across from me and after a glance around the room, he removes his hood. A woman wearing a dress that’s barely holding in her breasts leans over our table. “Can I get you something, handsome?”
“I’ll have what he’s having.” Caiden lifts his chin toward me.
“And two hot dinners,” I add. “Whatever’s fresh. Meat that was killed today.”
She lifts a skeptical brow but when I push a few silver coins across the table, her expression softens. A practiced smile spreads across her lips. “Of course, gentlemen. And if there’sanythingelse I can do for you…” She winks at Caiden.
“I’m flattered, miss, but I’m a married man,”he says.
“And where is this wife of yours?” she asks.
“Faithfully waiting for me at home,” he replies.
“Well, she’s a lucky woman.”
Caiden nods toward me. “This one’s available. Don’t think he’ll ever find a woman who can tame him.”
“Is that a challenge?” she teases.
My insides heat. “I’m taking a break from women at the moment.”
“That’s too bad. Let me know if you change your mind.” She walks away from our table, swinging her hips as she does.
I sip my ale, praying it gets me drunk quickly. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s strong enough to do the job.
“You used to be more fun,” Caiden says.
I glare at him over the rim of my cup, then set it down. “Since when do you turn down women?”
“As I told her, I’m a married man.”
“That didn’t stop you on the journey to the winter estate. Not even married a week and already fucking other women.”
“Well, I couldn’t very well get my wife to do it when she was so busy keeping your bed warm.”
“You won’t need to worry about that.” I pick the mug back up and take a large gulp.
“Here you are, darling.” The server sets a mug of ale in front of Caiden. “Food will be out soon. I’m having the cook make something proper for you.”
“Thanks.” Caiden picks up his drink and lifts it in her direction. “As long as you’re taking care of us, we’re happy men.”
She giggles as she walks away.
I groan.
“I can be nice to people without sleeping with them.” He takes a long pull from his mug, then sets it down so hard the foam rises to the brim.
“No, you can’t. Unless you want something else from them. That’s how it is with you. You use people. Every single person you’ve ever known. Everyone you keep in your circle. They all play a role. Don’t think I don’t know that.” Maybe the ale is starting to get to me.
He shrugs, as if he’s bored of the conversation. “Like they aren’t around me for the same reason? That’s how it works when you rule. I don’t get the luxury of having casual friends. They use me, and I use them. I can’t trust anyone unless they owe me something.”
“She’s not going to be your pawn. You’re underestimating her.” It’s the only thing that’s gotten me through what I did to her. The fact that I’m certain she’s stronger than she knows. Stronger than me, that’s for damn sure.
